Hurricane season is June 1 through November 30. South Florida’s season is typically most active from August through October. Hurricanes range from a Category 1, which produces the least damage, to a Category 5, which causes the most devastating damage. Following is a description of the five storm categories, with a description of damage that may be anticipated from each category.​​

Category 1: Sustained winds 74-95 mph, 64-82 kt, or 119-153 km/hr

Damage primarily to shrubbery, trees, and unanchored mobile homes. No real damage to other structures.

Some damage to poorly constructed signs.

Older mobile homes could be destroyed, especially if they are not anchored properly.

Category 5: Sustained winds 157+ mph, 137+ kt, or 252+ km/hr

Very severe and extensive damage to windows and doors; complete failure of roofs on many residences and industrial buildings; extensive shattering of glass in windows and doors; some complete building failures.